How to Make Your Own Ground Eggshell Calcium Supplement for Dogs and Cats

by Sarah Whitman

Eggshell offers a highly absorbable form of calcium.

Whether you have a dog, a cat or both, using ground eggshell is an easy and highly nutritious approach to calcium supplementation. Dogs and cats alike will benefit from the natural nutrients found in eggshells, without any of the additives found in many commercial supplements.

Calcium Info

Most of the body's calcium is found in bones. It forms a base for your pets' bone structure, and works with phosphorous, boron, vitamin D and other nutrients to support muscle and nerve function, balance hormone levels and keep blood healthy. Eggshells pack a calcium punch, as they are about 94 to 97 percent calcium. This calcium is highly absorbable due to its natural form, and because other trace minerals present within the shell increase absorption.

Calcium Content in Eggshells, and Choosing Eggs

One average-size eggshell has 750 to 800 mg of calcium, along with trace elements like boron, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc and more. Eggshells have a total of 27 trace elements and a composition similar to bones and teeth. They're porous, so they are vulnerable to contaminants, chemicals and bacteria in their environment. Therefore, buy organic when possible. Cooking eggshells will help destroy bacteria, but it won't remove chemicals.

Basic Eggshell Calcium Supplement Recipe

Remove egg from shell. Keep the thin membrane, as it contains nutrients. Drop shells in boiling water for a minute or two to kill bacteria. Dry, then place in a coffee grinder. Grinding protects your pet's mouth, as shells are sharp otherwise. If you don't have a grinder, place them in a plastic bag and roll them with a rolling pin until well crushed. Last resort is to use your hands to crush them. When they no longer hurt your hand, they're probably safe for your pet's mouth.

About the Author

Sarah Whitman's work has been featured in newspapers, magazines, websites and informational booklets. She is currently pursuing a master's degree in nutrition, and her projects feature nutrition and cooking, whole foods, supplements and organics. She also specializes in companion animal health, encouraging the use of whole foods, supplements and other holistic approaches to pet care.